Democrats promise more funds for infrastructure

WASHINGTON (AP) - Senate Democrats promised more money for infrastructure projects when an almost $900 billion version of President Barack Obama's stimulus plan hits the Senate floor next week.

That could mean more money for roads, bridges and more traditional public works programs than presently in the measure.

"We're going to be offering some amendments to improve the package and hopefully make it more amenable to some of the Republicans," said Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., who wants to add $3 billion for mass-transit programs. He said Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., chairwoman of the panel responsible for transportation and housing spending, would propose more infrastructure spending.

Schumer also said Democrats were looking to make a $7,500 tax credit for first-time homebuyers more generous.

The Senate debate promises to be a freewheeling affair, as senators will be able to offer far more amendments than allowed in the House.

Obama's stimulus plan would give states a cash infusion to deal with budget cuts, There's also money for housing weatherization, school construction, road building and other provisions. There are big investments toward Obama's campaign promise of creating jobs that can reduce the nation's dependence on foreign oil.

The centerpiece tax cut calls for a $500 break for single workers and $1,000 for couples, including those who don't earn enough to owe federal income taxes. There are also tax breaks for businesses making investments in equipment and renewable energy production.

Republicans will have ample opportunities to try to cut taxes further and knock out questionable spending items such as $870 million to combat the flu and $400 million to slow the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.

Republicans also promise a focus on the housing crisis, which is largely unaddressed under the Obama plan.

"We look forward to offering amendments to improve this critical legislation and move it back to the package President Obama originally proposed - 40 percent tax relief, no wasteful spending and a bipartisan approach," Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said Thursday.

Schumer was confident the measure would pass easily and attract at least a few GOP votes. House Republicans were united in opposition when it passed the House on Wednesday.

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